In a dramatic jewellery heist at Clearwater Mall on Tuesday, 22 October 2024, robbers got more than they bargained for when their escape plan was abruptly thwarted by a swift law enforcement response.
Story Summary:
- Eight armed suspects robbed a jewellery store at Clearwater Mall, making off with an undisclosed amount of jewellery.
- A dramatic shootout ensued between the suspects and police, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and recovery of four firearms.
- Two police officers and three suspects were injured during the shootout, and the suspects will face charges in the Roodepoort Magistrate Court.
Clearwater Mall robbery: Here’s everything we know
At around midday, eight armed robbers entered the busy mall, heading straight to a jewellery store. Brandishing firearms, they held staff at gunpoint and looted a substantial amount of jewellery.
According to a statement from Clearwater Mall management, “the suspects fled with an undisclosed number of items” but, fortunately, no injuries were sustained by shoppers or employees during the incident.
However, their escape was short-lived. As the suspects made their way out of the mall, police and private security forces, who had been alerted to the unfolding situation, intercepted them at Christiaan de Wet Road, right outside the mall.
A shootout ensued, during which two police officers and three suspects were injured.
One officer was treated at the scene, while the other was taken to a medical facility and is reported to be in stable condition.
Police arrested four of the suspects on the spot and recovered two firearms.
Meanwhile, a manhunt for the remaining robbers led law enforcement to Dobsonville, where three additional suspects were captured, and two more firearms were seized.
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni commended the swift and coordinated response, stating:
“These arrests should send a message to all the criminals that law enforcement agencies are ready for them this festive season.”
In total, seven suspects were arrested, and four firearms were recovered. The stolen jewellery, or at least a portion of it, was also found. The suspects now face serious charges, including business robbery, attempted murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms, and will appear in the Roodepoort Magistrate Court in due course.
- PLEASE NOTE: This story was edited to include more context and comments from Gauteng SAPS and Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni.